undisputed at – Jai Opetaia says his priority at 200 pounds is clearing the division for undisputed status, pointing to a possible big fight schedule after his March win and calling for fellow titleholders to reach out.
Jai Opetaia has been building toward a single, stubborn goal at 200 pounds: undisputed.
The Australian cruiserweight — currently 30-0 with 23 knockouts — says he wants the biggest fights possible at his weight. and he’s pushing for unification rather than just more championship proof. Speaking at a TKO event in Washington DC. Opetaia said he expects to talk through next steps with his team and hopes to make the “dream” happen by the end of the year.
Chris Billam-Smith. a fellow Zuffa signing from Bournemouth. is in pursuit of Opetaia as well after his stoppage of Ryan Rozicki last week. But Opetaia’s focus remains on belts and the undisputed picture, not just the most available matchup. He previously lost his WBO title to Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. and the road to the full set at 200 pounds could pass through Ramirez again if the champion stays at the weight after dismantling Ramirez’s opponent. David Benavidez. “should he stay at 200lbs after dismantling Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.”.
For now, Opetaia’s year at the division has been lean. He has boxed just once in 2024, outscoring Brandon Glanton in March. Despite the limited time in the ring. he’s presenting himself as the fighter with the clearest claim to lead the weight class. saying he remains intent on fighting whichever champion or champions are willing.
“I actually had a good sitdown with the team today and we’re hoping to make that dream possible by the end of the year. ” Opetaia said. He added that early next year could also work. but he’s still aiming for one specific outcome: “That’s a perfect plan. Early next year would be good but undisputed is what I want. Any of these other beltholders want it, I’m telling you, it’s an easy fight to make. All they’ve got to do it reach out.”.
The stakes are obvious in the way he frames it: he’s not treating the undisputed plan as a long shot. He’s talking as if the only real barrier is whether the other titleholders actually move.
Jai Opetaia undisputed 200 pounds cruiserweight Chris Billam-Smith Ryan Rozicki Brandon Glanton Washington DC TKO Zuffa Gilberto Zurdo Ramirez David Benavidez